Nigeria is taking a major step onto the international gymnastics stage by hosting the prestigious International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Judges Course in Abuja. The event, which began on May 10 and runs through May 14, is designed to enhance the skills of gymnastics judges from across Africa.
Participants from Algeria, Egypt, Cameroon, South Africa, and Nigeria are attending the intensive training, which is being led by Dimitri Andreev, a respected FIG official from Russia.
This initiative is part of the Nigeria Gymnastics Federation’s long-term strategy to raise the standard of gymnastics officiating and foster the development of elite-level judges across the continent.
Leaders of the National Sports Commission, including Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, have praised the program. They highlighted its importance in building local talent and positioning Nigeria as a hub for international sporting events.
The course is expected to leave a lasting impact—not just on the individual participants—but on the future of gymnastics in Africa as a whole.
